Update date: May 2024
Thank you to the Montana Yellowstone National Tourist Area for hosting us on our recent visit to Yellowstone Country. All opinions we provide are our unique perspectives and reflect our experience. We are committed to providing our viewers with honest and trustworthy reviews.
Our trip to Yellowstone Country in Montana was life-changing. You read that right. We had never experienced a place like this together before. Large spaces, friendly and open people, a slow and relaxing pace and food. Wait…are you talking about food? Yes. Of course, the West is famous for high-quality, delicious meat. But there is much more to explore. Let us take you on a delicious journey through Yellowstone Country, show you some delicious stops along the way, and share why we fall in love with this beautiful part of the world.
big sky resort
When you think of Montana, the first thing that probably comes to mind is Big Sky Country. After arriving at Bozeman’s classic cabin-style airport, it’s no surprise that our first stop was Big Sky Resort. It owns 5,800 acres in Yellowstone Country. If you climb to the top of Lone Mountain at Big Sky Resort, you’ll enjoy panoramic views that include two national parks and endless mountain peaks. To say it’s stunning is an understatement. Taking the ski lifts and trams to the top is a fun trip any time of year.
If you go during the ski season, you can enjoy more than 250 pistes. There’s plenty for beginners and intermediate skiers, as well as plenty of expert trails to challenge even the most skilled skiers. They have a full range of winter mountain sports as well as a spa where you can relax and unwind. In the summer, you can enjoy hiking, mountain biking, zip lining, swimming, golfing and more.
What we liked was the variety of dining options. Whether you’re heading out for a weekend gourmet event or just want to sample a great local craft beer at Montana Jack, the resort has you covered. There are 9 restaurants in the hotel to satisfy your taste buds no matter what you want to eat.
Gushan Ranch
It’s not enough that Lone Mountain Ranch is listed as one of National Geographic’s unique lodges in the world. There also happens to be a restaurant on the ranch called French horn and French horn Offering Montana-style classic dishes with innovative twists in a casual setting.
The good news is, you don’t have to stay at the ranch, although we highly recommend dining at Horn & Cantle. The cabins are luxurious and guarantee a relaxing and quiet getaway away from the world.
If you want to try some game, they have plenty. Elk, bison, venison and wild boar are available. But you won’t want to miss the trout and salmon, either.
Be sure to start with one of their signature cocktails before walking over to the beautifully designed bar and taking in the beautiful views. A must-try is the Huckleberry Lemonade made with Montana-produced Huckleberry Vodka. Pro tip: Sit on the balcony for the perfect alfresco experience. Please pay attention! You will never want to leave.
Livingston – Paradise Valley
You know we gotta love a former advertising executive who left Chicago to run a hotel in Livingston, Montana. It was great to meet Chip Hurt, reminisce about the old days of advertising, and tour this newest venture. Pine Creek Inn More than just another place to stay in beautiful Paradise Valley in Livingston, Montana. There’s a bustling live music venue with talented local performers and a restaurant serving delicious food.
We came here for a nice lunch but we heard from a few locals that their brunch is great. The menu features rock n roll favorites like the Lollapalooza Burger, SXSW Chicken Sandwich, and even a Chicago hot dog!
We had the PCL Montana Wagyu patty, which was topped with smoked cheddar cheese, brown sugar bacon, and homemade pickles (we loved them!). You can also add cheese curds, cheese cubes, chicken wings, and mac and cheese. There are also plenty of salads and other entrees to choose from.
Livingston has a lot of delicious food
While in Livingston we were lucky enough to have time to hang out Neptune Brewery. Not only do they have so many delicious craft beers on tap, but they also have what they call a beer-centric menu in the restaurant bar out front.
The premium bar food menu includes hand-cut Kennebec chips, mussels, calamari, edamame and salmon croquettes. But don’t forget about burgers, sandwiches, tacos, and very long nigiri, sashimi, and sushi rolls. Every dish that comes out of the kitchen looks better than the one before. We highly recommend a stop at Neptune Brewery for reasonably priced food ($4-$16) and delicious beer, it’s an unforgettable treat.
chico hot springs
Chico may be home to natural hot springs, but it’s also a gourmet traveler’s paradise, with local specialties and an incredibly extensive wine list. Located just north of Yellowstone National Park, this unexpected discovery is a must-see. You can dine in the main restaurant, the poolside grill or the saloon (who doesn’t love a saloon?).
From burgers in the saloon to a full fine dining experience in the main restaurant, you’ll love Chico’s cuisine. Click here to see our full review of Chico.
big timber
In the shadow of the Crazy Mountains, this town of 1,800 inhabitants serves hearty cuisine with a local twist.
During Big Timber, you’ll want to visit Grand Hotel Restaurant It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Exquisite cuisine is served for both lunch and dinner, using locally raised meats and seafood, arriving fresh daily. There’s a unique and delicious chef’s daily specials, and if you’re looking for snacks and pub food, check out their fully restored 1890 pub.
If you love bakeries (and we know you do), check out Big Timber Bakery. Dine in or take out at one of the many nearby places where you can hike and enjoy food found in nature. It’s family run and you can taste the care that goes into the delicious food.
sumptuous lunch
Their sandwiches and cinnamon rolls are truly Big Sky Country Big. Just go the extra mile and enjoy every bite.
Another unexpected stop in Yellowstone Country was Tumblewood Teas. As a tea lover, I knew we had to make a quick stop. Luckily, I’m not new to Tumblewood Teas. Chico Hot Springs and Day Spa and Homestead Bed & Breakfast both offer Tumblewood tea to guests. We are happy to see others supporting this local, woman-owned business.
Afternoon tea time
When we had the opportunity to meet founders Riza Gilpin and Laurie Rennie at Big Timber, little did I know I was in for special treatment.
Founded in 2009, this woman-owned business offers some seriously delicious teas. From some of the best Pu’er teas to custom blends like Bright Montana Morning, Cowboy Creamsicle (yes, it tastes like Creamsicle), and I’m Your Huckleberry, they’re all great.
I have to admit, relaxing and drinking tea with these girls was one of the highlights of my time in Yellowstone National Park. Be sure to visit their website and learn more about them and their tea collection. The good news is you can buy them online TumblewoodTeas.com.
Bozeman
While we didn’t spend much time in Bozeman, we can tell you that we definitely need to visit this thriving community again. Wandering through the quaint downtown area and seeing everything going on left us craving more. This is no ordinary college town.
After a long day we were lucky enough to have a little time at Planc. While the wine list is impressive, the cocktail program is also well worth checking out. We sat on their amazing patio and were immediately transported to another place. Gardens, twinkling lights, and artwork make you feel like you’re in your own backyard, but with people providing services!
Our last meal in Yellowstone County was at jam! in Bozeman. This lively popular spot serves breakfast all day long. After your tour along Main Street, stop for a delicious breakfast or lunch. Some typical dishes with unique flavors make it difficult to choose what to order. May I recommend the Benedictine Trio? You can choose your favorite flavors, but I chose chicken biscuits, crab cakes, and Mia Benedict Italian. Everything was delicious and Mia Bene was so delicious. Homemade grilled country bread crostini, roasted tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, balsamic and fresh basil. How does it sound? I thought so!
Snacks and Snacks
One of the things most travelers look for in a new destination is ice cream. Montana’s claim to fame stems from Wilcoxon. Our host swore we needed to try Wilcoxon’s huckleberry ice cream sandwich. Throughout our trip we looked everywhere for this damn ice cream sandwich. Along the way, I tried Wilcoxon’s Huckleberry Ice Cream Bars (really well covered in dark chocolate) and Wilcoxon’s Huckleberry Ice Cream (pure research). Finally, we found the elusive ice cream sandwich at Big Timber. It did not disappoint. So, be sure to try this local delicacy during your travels.
Sometimes, a local favorite may not be hyper-local, but is still a favorite. Such is the case with Dot’s Homestyle Pretzels. They’re made in North Dakota, come recommended by everyone, and are probably the most addictive pretzels we’ve ever had. Dot’s “delicious” seasonings will have you eating the entire bag before you know it. Available at most grocery stores, you can also buy Dot’s Pretzels are also available on Amazon.
Clearly, these attractions and dishes are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to what Yellowstone Country, Montana, has to offer. Next time you think about heading to Montana’s “Old West,” be prepared to pack your stretchy pants and eat lots of delicious meals and delicious snacks!
To learn more about Yellowstone Country in Montana and plan your visit, visit their website Visit yellowstonecountry.com.
If you’ve been to Yellowstone Country, share your favorite spots with us in the comments below.
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